Crispy and Flavorful Taiwanese Ji Pai
Experience Taiwan’s Street Food: Irresistible Ji Pai!
Enjoy Taiwan’s famous night market delicacy, Ji Pai, right at home! This recipe features crispy outside and juicy inside chicken cutlets, enhanced with a blend of aromatic spices. A special Korean-adapted recipe from “All Recipes of the World, Man-Gae Recipe”.
Main Ingredients- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 Tbsp curry powder
- 1/2 cup tempura flour (or fried chicken batter mix)
- 1 egg
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- Generous amount of cooking oil for deep frying
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Rinse the chicken breasts and remove any sinew. Butterfly each breast to create thin cutlets, about 1cm thick. This ensures even cooking and a pleasant texture.
Step 2
Place the butterflied chicken cutlets inside a resealable plastic bag. Using a meat mallet, rolling pin, or the back of a heavy knife, gently pound the chicken to about 2-3mm thickness. This makes them tender and easier to fry to a perfect crisp.
Step 3
Lightly season both sides of the pounded chicken cutlets with salt and black pepper. Marinating beforehand allows the flavors to penetrate the meat for a tastier result.
Step 4
In a shallow dish, combine the tempura flour and curry powder. Mix them well. The subtle curry aroma will add a delightful layer of flavor to the chicken.
Step 5
In separate bowls, whisk the egg to create an egg wash, and place the panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each seasoned chicken cutlet first in the flour mixture, then dip it into the egg wash, and finally coat it thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. A good coating ensures a wonderfully crispy exterior.
Step 6
Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a deep pan or pot over medium-high heat to about 170-180°C (340-355°F). Carefully place the breaded chicken cutlets into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, resulting in a less crispy finish.
Step 7
In a small bowl, mix together the instant ramen seasoning, cumin powder, and nutmeg powder. This aromatic blend will add a unique and savory twist.
Step 8
Remove the fried Ji Pai from the oil and let them drain on a wire rack or paper towels for a moment. While still warm, generously sprinkle the prepared special seasoning mix over the crispy chicken. Enjoy your homemade Taiwanese Ji Pai immediately for the best taste and texture!
